Artwork

Apollo and Daphne

Apollo and Daphne, by Jonas Silber, ink, 1582
Apollo and Daphne, by Jonas Silber, ink, 1582

Apollo and Daphne is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jonas Silber. It dates from 1582 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Apollo and Daphne is a 1582 punch engraving on laid paper by Jonas Silber, depicting a dynamic forest scene from mythology.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving captures the pivotal moment of Daphne's metamorphosis into a tree as Apollo reaches for her, illustrating the mythological narrative of pursuit and transformation.

Technique & Style

Silber employed fine lines and nuanced shading to convey movement and texture, with the intricate transformation of Daphne's body into tree elements being a highlight of the work.

History & Provenance

Created in 1582, specific details about the engraving's history and ownership prior to its current status are not provided.

Context

As a punch engraving, the piece reflects the technical capabilities of 16th-century printmaking, inviting comparison with the era's engraving practices.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jonas Silber

Artist

Jonas Silber

Jonas Silber (1572–1589) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.